The Storyboard:
A visual script created by a series of pictures that conveys the essential shots of a scene. With
simple artwork, even stick figures, the storyboard artist quickly and simply communicates to the
entire team the visual components— broken down into individual shots—of the script. The
director and cinematographer should be able to determine the position of actors and the
direction of their movements, the type and framing of thway each shot will fit into preceding and following ones.
The Challenge:
Storyboard a script scenario for the Door Scene in a manner you feel will be the most visually
effective. However, when you create your storyboard, think of a creative, entertaining or
surprising new ending for the scenario. The entire film must follow the original script until the
character opens the door. From that point on, you are on your own! Also, write a detailed
description of your new ending (this should be done in your USM Google Docs).
Parameters/Limitations
Same general parameters and limitations as in Step One.
You must use at least five different shots.
Every detail must be included in your storyboard. It must be so visually clear that a stranger, unfamiliar with the scenario, could take your storyboard and shoot the film exactly as you visualized it when creating your storyboard.
You may write descriptions for each storyboard panel to help with your screen direction. However, as much as you can, try to communicate the information visually. Use your written descriptions to scaffold your visuals, not replace them.
Exhibit, Reflect, Revise:
In your original production teams, pitch your storyboards to one another. Be prepared to defend
your creative choices. Why is it the cleanest, most entertaining and emotive storyboard in your
team? At this point, your team has two options:
1. Select one of your team member’s storyboards to be filmed.
2. Create a new storyboard to be filmed.
In either case, create a list of the criteria you agreed upon as a group to make your choices.
Bring your criteria list, your own storyboard, your written description and your team’s selection/
new storyboard to the next session.
Storyboard Evaluation:
Storyboard rubric (4 pots)
Care and effort was put into the storyboard (1 pt)
Total Points: /5
4 Stars
3 Stars
2 Stars
1 Star
Storyboard is easy to read,
and all elements for the shot
are clearly described.
Storyboard is mostly easy to
read, and all elements for the
shot are described.
Storyboard is difficult to read
and doesn’t clearly describe
the shots.
Storyboard is very hard to
read and does not clearly
communicate filmmaker’s
intention.
A visual script created by a series of pictures that conveys the essential shots of a scene. With
simple artwork, even stick figures, the storyboard artist quickly and simply communicates to the
entire team the visual components— broken down into individual shots—of the script. The
director and cinematographer should be able to determine the position of actors and the
direction of their movements, the type and framing of thway each shot will fit into preceding and following ones.
The Challenge:
Storyboard a script scenario for the Door Scene in a manner you feel will be the most visually
effective. However, when you create your storyboard, think of a creative, entertaining or
surprising new ending for the scenario. The entire film must follow the original script until the
character opens the door. From that point on, you are on your own! Also, write a detailed
description of your new ending (this should be done in your USM Google Docs).
Parameters/Limitations
Same general parameters and limitations as in Step One.
Exhibit, Reflect, Revise:
In your original production teams, pitch your storyboards to one another. Be prepared to defend
your creative choices. Why is it the cleanest, most entertaining and emotive storyboard in your
team? At this point, your team has two options:
1. Select one of your team member’s storyboards to be filmed.
2. Create a new storyboard to be filmed.
In either case, create a list of the criteria you agreed upon as a group to make your choices.
Bring your criteria list, your own storyboard, your written description and your team’s selection/
new storyboard to the next session.
Storyboard Evaluation:
Storyboard rubric (4 pots)
Care and effort was put into the storyboard (1 pt)
Total Points: /5
and all elements for the shot
are clearly described.
read, and all elements for the
shot are described.
and doesn’t clearly describe
the shots.
read and does not clearly
communicate filmmaker’s
intention.